Summer is soon approaching in Los Angeles. As if we don’t have almost-perfect weather year-round, the summer weather in Los Angeles can’t really be beat. The sunny, mid-70’s days turn into lightly breezy evenings, allowing Angelenos to enjoy a variety of fun outdoor activities both during day and into the night. I try to be outside as much as possible in my free time, and some of my favorite outdoor activities from last summer include the Cinespia outdoor moving screenings and Twilight concert series at Santa Monica Pier (would recommend them both). Organizing fun summer outings for a group of friends is a great way to do something new and different while taking advantage of our beautiful Southern California weather.This brings me to sharing about a beautiful outdoor location for a summer adventure… Malibu Wines! Malibu Wines is a unique wine tasting room located in the middle of Santa Monica Mountains. The tasting room is entirely outdoors and makes for a fun day (it’s very easy to spend a whole day here!) with friends. They offer wine tasting flights, wines by the bottle, and mimosas, and you’re able to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages inside, to enjoy alongside your wine.I went to Malibu Wines this past weekend with a group of friends to celebrate my dear friend Elli’s birthday. I had been here before, but each time I enjoy this spot more and more. From listening to the live music, to sipping delicious white wine outdoors in the fresh air, to spending quality time with your best friends – ahhhhh *insert sigh of content*. If you enjoy social outings that involve sun, wine, picnics, and live music – this may be your new favorite spot, my friend. Read more below on some of the highlights of Malibu Wines as well as tips and things you should know before you go!Highlights

The décor throughout the grounds of Malibu Wines is gorgeous! There are endless photo opps here, starting with the large metal W-I-N-E letters you will see upon entering the winery. So fun! Make sure you walk around throughout your visit there to see all of the unique and rustic design touches.

There is no cost for admission to Malibu Wines, but there is a minimum of a 1 wine bottle purchase for each group of 2-4 people. Tasting flights cost between $14-$16 and you can also purchase wine by the bottle starting at $28. You’ll be able to take home any wine glasses you use during the day for free. :)

It’s BYOF: Bring your own food! One of my favorite things about Malibu Wines is that you can bring your own munchies and picnic spread, as well as any non-alcoholic beverages. I’d recommend stopping by Trader Joes on your way to pick up crackers, cheese, veggies, hummus, and some sort of treat item. Make sure you also bring water bottles, paper plates, plastic cutlery, napkins, etc.

Malibu Wines hosts local musicians to perform live on weekends from 12:00pm-2:00pm and 3:00pm-6:00pm. The live music is fantastic! There’s no doubt that you’ll want to get up and dance on the outdoor dance floor with your friends by the end of the afternoon. My best friend actually hired a musician she first heard at Malibu Wines to walk her down the aisle at her wedding a few years ago.

Overall, Malibu Wines isa GREAT place for a group outing or to celebrate a special occasion. The few times I have been at Malibu Wines have been to celebrate either a friend’s birthday or bridal shower, and each time I go I fall more in love with the winery set-up and design, overall ambiance, and the buzzing (yet still calm and relaxing) energy of this outdoor space.

Tips & Things To Know Before You Go

The seating is first-come, first-serve. It can get pretty crowded, so get here early (by 11:00am or 12:00pm on a weekend day) to reserve a spot at one of the many picnic tables. Bring a blanket to sit on the grass in case all of the picnic tables are already claimed upon your arrival.

Malibu Wines will take reservations for groups, but it will cost you.If you want to reserve a table or event space for a fee, you can do so by calling818.865.06050 or clicking here for the options on reserved picnic tables or private event spaces.

Because Malibu Wines is tucked in the middle of the Santa Monica Mountains, it tends to be much warmer here inland than it is near the cost. Check the weather beforehand (I’d look up the weather for a city in the Valley – say Sherman Oaks or Agoura Hills - rather than in Malibu, which may be ) and dress accordingly. Also, because there is a lot of grass and dirt around, I’d stay away from stilettos or heels and opt for wedges or nice sandals instead. Lastly, bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen – there is limited shade here.

Malibu Wines does not allow: anyone in under 21 years of age, any pets except for medical support animals, or any outside tables and chairs to be brought in.

According to the Malibu Wines Website, here is information on parking: “As part of our ongoing efforts to improve public safety and help keep Malibu Wines open for visitation, parking and drop offs are no longer allowed on Mulholland Highway on weekends. Weekdays: Free parking in our main lot (31740 Mulholland Hwy). Weekends: VALET: SoCal Valet will be offering valet parking in our main lot for $14 per car (cash-only). SHUTTLE LOT: A complimentary shuttle lot will be provided at 32111 Mulholland Highway, 1/2 mile from Malibu Wines tasting room. A free shuttle runs every 15 minutes.”

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@jorda_b

EXPLORE YOUR HEART OUT

L.A. is an amazing and diverse city full of culture, history, art, nature, museums, and attractions - which results in countless things to do & see - no matter your budget. Time after time I find that when you seek new adventure, you will find it!